Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given has announced his retirement from international football to focus on his club career with Stoke City.

The 40-year-old – who retired previously in 2012 before returning to the international fold – leaves after winning 134 caps for Ireland and becoming the country’s longest serving player.

The Donegal man was part of Martin O’Neill’s Euro 2016 squad as back up to Darren Randolph but did not appear.

It was Given’s third major tournament for Ireland after playing at the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan and Euro 2012 in Poland and Ukraine.

Given announced his retirement via a letter to fans on Twitter.

“It’s every boy’s dream to play football for his school, his local club, and maybe, in his wildest dreams, his country,” he wrote.

“To try be as good at football as his father was before him and make his mother proud.

“I’ve been blessed that I was able to do this, from kickabouts in the back yard at home in Co Donegal with my brothers, to playing for St Colomba’s Collage Stranorlar, Lifford Celtic and then to making my debut with the Republic of Ireland aged 18.

“I’m one of the very lucky ones who got to wear the jersey for his country and wore the badge with pride 134 times. But now it’s time to hang up the gloves and move from the onion bag to the terraces, where I’ll be shouting the lads on as one of Ireland’s biggest fans.

“So as I retire from Ireland duty to focus on my club career, I want to say a HUGE thanks to everyone who supported me all the way — my close family, friends and amazing fans.

“Couldn’t have done it without you, and all my great team-mates, managers and friends at the FAI.

“Go raibh maith agat.”